The Department of Communication offers an integrated program in communication enabling students to choose their future careers in three tracks: journalism, broadcasting and public relations. The 2000-2001 study program seeks to prepare communicators who possess full familiarity with their Arab-Islamic culture, competent bilingual capabilities, and advanced skills in the use of communication methods and technological tools. To this end, a television studio, a radio studio and a Mac-based desktop publishing lab have been established to provide on-campus training opportunities for students in the broadcast and journalism tracks. Another parallel program of training is already taking place at numerous media organizations and public relations departments in Sharjah and Dubai, providing students with first-hand fields experiences in media work.

The Department of Communication has also been involved in a series of joint activities with local government organizations in the Sharjah community. Faculty members have taken part in cultural activities like symposia, conferences, and seminars in which a wide range of cultural and media issues have been addressed. A program of guest speakers and seminars has been drawn out.It includes inviting guests from the media industry to meet with our students and give lectures on media issues. A community advisory board comprising members of media organizations in the UAE will also be established to provide guidance to our department.

During the past three years, the Department of Communication has grown from a single staff member to 11, while the student body, the largest in the College, has increased from 40 in Fall 1997-98 to 336 in Fall 2000-2001-to 457 in fall 2001-2002. About 80% of students are females.